Juicy shrimp are baked together with sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, garlic, and fresh herbs in this vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish. Bursting with bold flavors and rustic charm, it’s a quick and elegant meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a beautiful blend of freshness and indulgence. The shrimp cook perfectly in the oven, absorbing the flavors of garlic, olive oil, and herbs, while the cherry tomatoes roast down into a sweet, tangy sauce. Mozzarella adds a rich, melty element that ties everything together. It’s easy to make in one dish and versatile enough to serve with crusty bread, pasta, or even rice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• cherry tomatoes, halved
• fresh mozzarella, torn into chunks
• olive oil
• garlic cloves, minced
• fresh chives or parsley, chopped
• salt and black pepper
• chili flakes (optional)
• lemon juice

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine the shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, torn mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Spread the mixture out in an even layer and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the mozzarella is melted and bubbling.
5. Remove from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, and serve hot with crusty bread or over your choice of pasta.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 3–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 25–28 minutes

Variations

• Add White Wine: A splash of dry white wine before baking enhances the sauce.
• Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese Alternative: Substitute mozzarella with crumbled feta or goat cheese.
• Vegetable Boost: Include spinach, zucchini, or thinly sliced red onion for more color and nutrition.
• Serve with Grains: Spoon over couscous, farro, or quinoa for a hearty, gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Seafood is best enjoyed fresh, so avoid prolonged storage.

To reheat, warm gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may overcook the shrimp and affect the cheese texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before baking.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked shrimp?

Pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but reduce baking time to about 8–10 minutes just to heat through.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients and assemble in the dish a few hours in advance. Bake just before serving.

What type of mozzarella works best?

Use fresh mozzarella torn into small chunks for a melty, creamy texture.

What can I serve this with?

Crusty bread, pasta, rice, or even a side salad pairs well with this dish.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free mozzarella alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free. Be mindful of what you serve it with.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Bake just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—usually 15–18 minutes is sufficient.

Can I add lemon zest for extra flavor?

Yes, zesting the lemon before juicing it adds a bright citrus note.

Can I use other types of seafood?

Yes, scallops or chunks of firm white fish can be used in place of shrimp.

Conclusion

Baked Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella is a fast, flavorful dish that brings together the vibrant ingredients of the Mediterranean in a comforting and satisfying way. With minimal prep and a short cook time, it’s perfect for weeknight meals yet elegant enough to serve guests. Enjoy it with warm bread or toss it with pasta for a complete and delicious dinner.

Print